Calling all bookworms—the Louisiana Book Festival is returning to the Red Stick! This epic celebration of all things literary is back for its 20th anniversary, and it’s going to be bigger and better than ever. Whether you’re a book lover or just looking for fun, free events in Baton Rouge, you won’t want to miss this family-friendly blowout.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2024 Louisiana Book Festival.
Getting There & Where to Stay
The Louisiana Book Festival will take place on Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the State Library of Louisiana in the heart of downtown Baton Rouge. Attendee count could range anywhere from 15,000 to 25,000 — so come prepared for a party. There are plenty of parking options, including street parking, parking lots, and the Galvez Parking Garage, all conveniently located within walking distance of the festival.
If you’re traveling from out of town, you’ll find several hotels nearby that make for a comfortable and convenient stay. The Origin Hotel, Watermark Baton Rouge, Hotel Indigo, Courtyard by Marriott Baton Rouge Downtown, and Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center — the festival’s official hotel — are all just a short stroll from the library, making it easy to pop back to your room for a break between festivities.
What to Expect at the Louisiana Book Festival
The Louisiana Book Festival is a celebration of culture, community, and creativity with hundreds of authors from around the country. You’ll have the chance to meet some of your favorite Louisiana authors and discover new ones along the way at one of the most beloved free events in Baton Rouge. Throughout the day, there will be book talks and presentations to give you a closer look at the creative minds behind the stories you love.
Not the biggest bookworm on the block? Don’t worry! The Louisiana Book Festival schedule features tons of non-literary fun as well. Our food culture is legendary, so what would a Baton Rouge book festival be without mouthwatering eats? There will be cooking demonstrations all day long, offering a taste of Louisiana’s unique flavors and culinary traditions. You can also expect live performances by the area’s top talent throughout the event, making the celebration even more electric.
As you explore the festival grounds, you’ll see hundreds of exhibits showcasing a wide range of genres. Whether you’re drawn to dark romance, historical non-fiction, or children’s literature, there’s something for everyone. If you’re interested in learning more about Louisiana’s rich culture and history, be sure to visit the 64 Parishes tent for a deep dive into everything that makes the Bayou State so unique.
For The Kids
Many of the free events in Baton Rouge are more centered around adults, but this one focuses equally on readers of all ages. Families with kids are in for a treat at the Young Readers Pavilion, where children can immerse themselves in storytelling, crafts, face painting, and more. The pavilion is designed to spark the imaginations of young minds, with appearances by costumed storybook characters to bring classic tales to life.
If you’re bringing a teenager along, they’ll love Teen HQ. This is an area where they can participate in age-appropriate crafts, connect with like-minded peers, and listen to presentations by their favorite young adult authors. It’s a vibrant, welcoming space that lets older kids dive into the world of literature in a way that resonates with them.
How to Participate
If you want to do more than just attend, there’s another way to participate in the Baton Rouge book festival experience. The One Book, One Festival discussion group is a fantastic opportunity to engage with literature on a more intimate level. This year’s selection is Eudora Welty’s The Optimist’s Daughter, and attendees are invited to read the book in advance and join the conversation at the festival. Explore the themes of the book with fellow readers in a discussion led by Dr. Gary Richards, a festival favorite.
More Free Events in Baton Rouge
The Louisiana Book Festival is a highlight of the season and a must-visit event for anyone in the area. Whether you’re attending for the books, the food, or the chance to connect with talented authors, you’re bound to have an unforgettable time. As you plan your exciting weekend in the Red Stick, don’t forget that the Baton Rouge book festival isn’t the only thing happening in town.
The state’s capital city is also the heart of its high-spirited culture, and you’ll find plenty of other free events in Baton Rouge this weekend to keep you entertained. Stroll along the Mississippi River, visit the Old State Capitol, or explore another family-friendly fall event in town. Take a break from the jam-packed Louisiana Book Festival schedule by checking out carnival rides at the Greater Baton Rouge State Fair or grabbing local brews and bites at Cap City Beer Fest.
Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, the 20th annual Louisiana Book Festival in Baton Rouge promises to be an experience like no other. So come on down, enjoy some free events in Baton Rouge this weekend, and book it on the bayou! We can’t wait to see you there, soaking in the best of Louisiana culture, food, and hospitality.
